Final answer:
If a dressing becomes saturated with blood, additional sterile dressings should be placed over the existing one, and pressure applied to encourage clotting.
Explanation :
If the sterile dressing over an open wound becomes saturated with blood, you should not remove the original dressing. Instead, add additional sterile dressings on top of the saturated one. Applying more pressure can help control the bleeding and encourage blood clotting. If the wound continues to bleed heavily and soaks through additional dressings, it is essential to seek professional medical help immediately. Excessive blood loss can lead to hemorrhage, which may require medical intervention to stop the bleeding and restore blood volume.
Observing for increased redness, swelling, and pain after an injury is critical because these could indicate an infection, which might need treatment with antibiotics or other medical attention. Furthermore, ensuring that any exposed wounds are kept clean and protected is vital to prevent infection and promote healing.